1972 Lincoln Mark IV review from North America

When I bought the car, the brakes were rusted from lack of use (the car had been in storage the last nine years) and needed a full overhaul, including master cylinder.

The transmission oil pan seal leaked and was replaced.

The vehicle also needed fresh shocks.

Other than these repairs and a full fluid flush, the car was in excellent condition mechanically.

I've wanted a Mark IV ever since I was a child and saw these magnificent vehicles cruising the streets of New York.

A few months ago, I located a '72 in our area and decided to take the plunge and purchase it. The car was in outstanding cosmetic condition, with a professional repaint and new vinyl top, and the mileage was very low for the model year.

This car just glides silently along the highway at high speeds and is a joy to drive. Yes, the steering has too much play and the brakes are not up to modern standards, but there is simply no vehicle today that can give the experience of driving a Mark IV.

What impresses me most about the vehicle is the fit-and-finish; the panels gaps are tight and uniform, the interior is made of very high-quality materials, and the whole car exudes quality and care of assembly.

I've been a long-time Cadillac fan and own a '72 Eldorado Convertible, but I have to admit that the Mark IV's fit-and-finish is superior to that of the Cadi. This fact and the styling is probably why the Mark IV and V consistently outsold Cadillac's "personal car" throughout most of the '70's.